Research Focus, Lizards - Diversity in the Differences

Our scientists study animals like the Jacky Lizard and the Mountain Dragon that live in overlapping habitats in forests and heathlands of Victoria. Although they are not closely related, these lizards look remarkably similar (until they open their mouths). Such overlap in distribution and appearance can disguise the true diversity of species. It requires careful research to understand the features that distinguish them.

Taxonomy is the discipline in science which studies the relationships between species and the differences that define one species from another. It is an important focus of museum-based scientists who draw on and develop extensive museum collections of animals to do this work. Knowing 'what is what' provides a fundamental base for understanding the natural world, for managing biodiversity and conserving species.